Homeless shelter declares 'cold night' for Orlando area

The Coalition for the Homeless of Central Florida will open their doors to anyone who needs to get out of the chill.

February 11, 2012|By Arelis R. Hernández, Orlando Sentinel

A blast of arctic air is causing homeless shelters to swing their doors open to anyone who doesn't have a warm place to stay tonight, officials announced Saturday.

Meteorologists at the National Weather Service in Melbourne are expecting temperatures to plunge to near freezing tonight as a cold front blows through the region. Blustery winds could make conditions even more dangerous for those who may sleep outdoors.

The Coalition for the Homeless of Central Florida will make space for homeless men, women and families who need to get out of the elements.

No one will be turned away from shelter, spokeswoman Muffet Robinson said.

The Coalition's men and women's facilities house an average of 600 people a night, but overflow space will be available for any additional refuge seekers, officials said.

The main campus is located at 639 West Central Blvd., and the women's center is at 107 East Hillcrest St., both in downtown Orlando.